1 Kings 21:1-4

Covetousness.

Amongst the arguments used by Samuel to discourage the people of Israel from desiring a king, he said, "He will take your fields, and your vineyards, and your olive yards, even the best of them." We have in the verses before us a notable example of the truth of this forecast, understanding covetousness in a bad sense.

I. DESIRE , IN THE ABSTRACT , IS NOT COVETOUSNESS .

1 . It is the principle of exchanges .

2 . But commerce is fruitful in blessings .

3. Desire, well directed, should be encouraged .

II. ILLICIT DESIRE IS COVETOUSNESS .

1 . We should not desire what God has forbidden .

2 . This rule requires the study of God's word .

III. INORDINATE DESIRE IS COVETOUSNESS . Some things are lawful without limit . Such are the direct claims of God.

2 . Other things are lawful in measure .